In a surprising move, Apple has launched the iPhone 16E, a new addition to its iPhone 16 series, featuring Apple Intelligence and the company’s first in-house 5G modem. The announcement, made on Apple’s website, marks a major overhaul of the 2022 iPhone SE, introducing a fresh design, powerful processor, and cutting-edge AI capabilities at a starting price of Rs 51982.81( $599, AU$999). This places the iPhone 16E between mid-range competitors like the Rs 43304.54 ($499) Google Pixel 8A and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE at Rs 56408.73 ($650).
Apple Brings AI to an Affordable iPhone
With AI becoming the driving force behind modern smartphones, Apple has made it clear that its Apple Intelligence technology is not limited to premium flagship models. The A18 chip powers the iPhone 16E, the same processor found in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, allowing it to run AI features seamlessly. This makes the iPhone 16E one of the few sub-$600 smartphones capable of delivering advanced AI-powered functionalities.
Design & Display: A Shift from the SE Line
The iPhone 16E takes design cues from the iPhone 14, featuring an aluminium body and a matte glass back to reduce fingerprints. The device also introduces the Action Button, replacing the traditional mute switch, enabling quick access to various shortcuts, including Apple’s Visual Intelligence searches.
Notably, Apple has done away with the home button, marking the end of an era for iPhones. The 16E sports a 6.1-inch display, eliminating Apple’s compact phone option. However, the screen remains locked at 60Hz, a notable downside given that most budget Android rivals offer 90Hz or higher refresh rates for smoother scrolling and animations. Additionally, the iPhone 16E retains the classic notch instead of Apple’s newer Dynamic Island feature.
Color options are also limited, with only black and white variants available.
Performance & Battery: Apple’s First In-House 5G Modem
One of the biggest highlights of the iPhone 16E is the introduction of Apple’s C1 5G modem, marking the company’s first step towards self-reliance in modem technology. Apple claims the C1 is the most power-efficient modem ever used in an iPhone. However, it lacks support for millimetre-wave 5G, meaning it won’t be able to leverage the fastest 5G speeds available in select areas, such as stadiums.
Apple also emphasizes improved battery life due to the A18 and C1 chip combination, making efficiency a standout feature. Though Apple hasn’t revealed exact battery performance figures, real-world testing will determine whether the battery life lives up to expectations.
Camera: A 48MP Sensor with AI Enhancements
The iPhone 16E features a single 48-megapixel rear camera, capable of 2x sensor-cropped zoom. While it lacks an ultrawide or telephoto lens, the high-resolution sensor compensates by offering a level of zoom flexibility. The front-facing 12-megapixel selfie camera supports Face ID and autofocus, ensuring high-quality selfies and video calls.
Charging & Accessories: No MagSafe Support
One surprising omission is MagSafe, meaning users won’t be able to take advantage of magnetic accessories. Wireless charging is capped at 7.5W, much slower than MagSafe-supported iPhones, while wired charging reaches 20W via the new USB-C port.
iPhone 16E Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16E will be available for preorder starting February 21 and will go on sale on February 28. It starts at $599 (₹59,900 in India), positioning it as a more affordable alternative to the standard iPhone 16, which starts at $799 (₹79,900 in India).
iPhone 16E to be Assembled in India
Apple continues its Make in India strategy by assembling the iPhone 16E locally, not just for the Indian market but also for export. The entire iPhone 16 lineup, including the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and 16E, will be produced in India by Apple’s manufacturing partners, including Foxconn, Pegatron, and Tata-owned Wistron.
According to Apple’s official statement, the iPhone 16E delivers “fast performance thanks to the A18 chip, breakthrough battery life, Apple Intelligence, and a 48MP camera system, providing exceptional value to customers.”
Apple’s Growing Retail & Manufacturing Presence in India
Apple’s expansion in India is evident not just in manufacturing but also in retail. The company recently launched the Apple Store app in India, complementing its online store. Additionally, Apple is reportedly expanding its physical retail presence, with new Apple Stores expected in Bengaluru, Pune, and additional locations in Delhi and Mumbai.
The Future of the iPhone 16E: Will It Be Updated Annually?
The shift from iPhone SE to iPhone 16E signals a change in Apple’s approach to affordable smartphones. The SE line traditionally used older components to create a low-cost iPhone, while the 16E shares core features with the latest iPhone models. This raises an interesting question: will Apple release a yearly update for the E-series, much like Samsung does with its Galaxy FE models?
While Apple hasn’t confirmed any future plans, the iPhone 16E represents a significant step in Apple’s affordability strategy, bringing premium features at a competitive price.
With preorders starting soon, it remains to be seen how well the iPhone 16E will perform in the market. Stay tuned for further reviews and in-depth testing as the device becomes available worldwide.
